Pedestrian Safety Tips

Posted By Twiggs, Strickland & Rabenau || 27-Jan-2017

Walking is the natural way to get from place to place, and while it’s
healthy for you, it can potentially be dangerous. Every year, numerous
pedestrians are struck by drivers, resulting in many injuries. Sadly,
in these instances many of these injuries could likely have been prevented
by exercising a little bit of extra safety precaution. Want to avoid falling
victim to a
pedestrian accident? Here are four valuable tips from our North Carolina car accident attorneys.

Look Before You Step

Many pedestrians assume that drivers will automatically stop for them because
they have the right of way. While you might legally have this privilege,
this does not guarantee drivers will stop, so you should never assume
they will do so. Always make sure you look left, then right, then left
again before stepping off the curb. It also never hurts to make eye contact
with a driver; your

Make Yourself Easily Seen

If you’re going to be walking along a road at night, don’t
dress in all-black. Wear bright colors, and even consider putting on reflective
materials to make sure drivers can see you clearly as they approach. This
gives them lots of time to move over to stay clear of you. Likewise, carrying
a flashlight can also help cars see you, or enable you to signal them
to alert them of your presence.

Be Careful at Crossings

When you reach a crossing, never proceed without a “WALK” signal
from the crossing devices. Just because the light is green doesn’t
necessarily mean that it is safe to dart out into the street. When you
do get a signal to proceed, look both ways (as discussed previously) and
move quickly. Likewise, consider where you are crossing: is it well-lit,
and open to visibility from all traffic directions? Can drivers see you
crossing for a considerable distance from each direction? If the answer
to these questions is yes, then proceed. If not, look for another place
to cross that may be safer.

Stay Focused

Many pedestrians enjoy plugging in their headphones and listening to music
while traveling, including joggers or those who have to walk a longer
distance. This is not advisable, however, as headphones reduce your ability
to perceive what is going on around you, and could cause you to step out
in front of a car you didn’t see or hear coming. Keep your cell
phone and music players put away while walking or jogging close to a major
street, it could save your life. The same rule applies for sending or
reading text messages or holding a phone conversation.

Have you been injured in a pedestrian accident? Call
Twiggs, Strickland & Rabenau as soon as possible. Our team is dedicated to helping those who have been
injured in car accidents obtain relief and peace of mind through financial
compensation. With more than 60 combined years of experience, we have
the knowledge and familiarity with the laws and codes that you need fight
for your rights as a victim.